Greece is a fascinating place. Its beautiful nature and rich culture attract foreigners from every corner of the world. More than a million immigrants now live here; many only dream of settling on isolated islands with breathtaking scenery. We can add to this the developed infrastructure, high standard of living, and modern medicine.
Local authorities offer active citizenship by investment programs, allowing them to attract wealthy people and improve the economic situation. Before you make essential changes in your life and get a second passport, read the overview and learn the intricacies of this fantastic Mediterranean country.
How to Immigrate to Greece
The immigrate to Greece on a D visa is available for foreigners who are not EU citizens. Having received it, the applicant can reside here for a long period. Criteria for this are the following:
- Obtaining education. In admission to a higher education institution, the student applies for a student visa. Once in the country, applying for a residence permit for educational purposes is possible. The student visa is issued for 12 months, with subsequent extensions.
- Work. First, you should apply for and obtain a work visa. It is possible to do this at the Greek diplomatic missions in your country. After arrival in Greece, a residence permit for employment is issued for 2 years with further extension. You can also obtain a one-year digital visa with the possibility of an extension for a self-employed worker.
- Family reunification. If you stay in the country for at least two years, you can bring your family members (spouse, children, parents). The family visa allows you to work and study. It is issued for one year with subsequent extension.
After a seven-year stay on the islands, the applicant can apply to obtain second citizenship. Thus, you provide yourself with a reliable safety cushion.
Investment Options
The country’s authorities have rationally decided to attract investors and entrepreneurs in the context of the global crisis. We are talking about how to get a Greek Golden Visa. The conditions are as attractive as possible: a five-year residence permit on the condition of purchasing a residential or commercial real estate object for 250 000 euros or more.
According to the expert of Immigrant Invest Vladlena Baranova, the preparatory process for immigration to Greece by investment programs takes about half a year and consists of the following stages:
- document collection;
- due diligence;
- selection, purchase of real estate;
- documentalization;
- obtaining a residence permit;
- prolongation of the residence permit.
Of course, you can go through the whole process on your own. But in this case, there is a high risk of failing to provide important information and, as a result, receiving a refusal. Turning to a reliable company offering qualified legal and accounting support is better.
Things to Know Before Immigrating to Greece
If you decide to move, it is recommended that you familiarize yourself with some of the subtleties and customs of this destination. Athens, Rhodes, Santorini, Crete, and Corfu are the most popular places. However, it does not mean there is no accumulation of wealthy foreigners in other regions.
Perhaps something will surprise you:
- Do you like coffee? Then, you will love it here. Greece is among the top 20 countries that actively consume this magical drink. A real gourmet will be able to appreciate the quality of the product.
- Always have cash on hand. Transactions can be carried out in hotels, restaurants, and large shopping centers. You can buy goods at the market or local stores only for “real” money.
- Get medical insurance right away. Of course, everyone has the right to medical treatment. However, without the document, all expenses will fall on your shoulders.
- Get ready to celebrate your name day. Greeks consider this holiday more important and have more advantages than a traditional birthday.
- Do not flush toilet paper down the toilet. Given the peculiarities of sewage pipes, you may get into an unpleasant situation.
Other advantages, such as the local population’s hospitality, affordable food and other goods cost, and exceptional healthy cuisine, are worth mentioning. You will not have to learn Greek for a comfortable stay; English is the predominant language here.
Conclusion
If you are unsure about your country’s political and economic stability, it is recommended to consider a backup option to ensure better living conditions. Immigration to Greece for wealthy investor is known for the following benefits:
- no exams are required;
- no needed permanent residency;
- beautiful views;
- comfortable climate;
- healthy food;
- free entry to Schengen countries;
- flexible tax system;
- developed infrastructure;
- return on investment after obtaining permanent residence;
- opportunity to get a second passport.
Since its inception, the program has given good results, attracting an increasing number of those wishing to apply. This issue is covered in more detail at immigrantinvest.com.
